Often called the "Valley of Silence," the Western Cwm is a broad, flat, gently undulating
glacial valley basin terminating at the foot of the Lhotse Face. The central section is cut
by massive lateral crevasses which bar entrance into the upper Western Cwm. In this section,
climbers must cross to the far right, over to the base of Nuptse to a narrow passageway known
as the Nuptse corner. From here, climbers have a stupendous view of the upper 8,000 feet
of Everest—the first glimpse of Everest's upper slopes since arriving at Base Camp. The
last 5,000 feet on Everest, including its distinct black pyramid summit, are not visible
from Base Camp. Contrary to what most people believe, some of the most difficult days on
Everest are in the Western Cwm, when on a windless day it is desperately hot. Says David
Breashears, "You literally pray for a puff of wind or a cloud to cover the sun so you can
keep moving up to Advance Base Camp."